Narrative Analysis

By Genevieve M. Nangit
February 27, 2024

Narrative Analysis of “City of Sand”: Della as mother

Della was a care-giver to Norma Jeane. She was the mother that cares and instilled values to the
child.

Sentences
Sometimes after Norma Jeane had been working with Della all morning, cleaning the apartment,
washing and drying clothes, Della took her on a special outing to feed with birds. Norma Jeane’s
happiest time! She and Grandma scattered bits of bread on the sandy soil of a vacant lot and
stood watching from a short distance as the birds flew in, cautious yet hungry, a flurry of wings,
quick darting little beaks. Pigeons, mourning doves, orioles, noisy scrub jays. (Page 45)

Norma Jeane loved her grandmother, who was the only living person who truly loved her, the
only living person who loved her without wishing to hurt her, only just to protect her. (Page 46)

Analysis
Della loves Norma Jeane, and so is Norma Jeane. This is a sweet, tender and genuine love
forged by care and acceptance.

Reference
“Blonde” by Joyce Carol Oates. 2000. 4th Estate: London, UK